Fix your teeth to look younger

Some 45 per cent of Brits do not like their teeth. Which explains why so many of us are turning to orthodontics to correct problems that we thought we'd have to live with for the rest of our lives.

Receding gums, smiles that are too 'gummy', wonky or overcrowded teeth, lopsided jaws, gaps and discoloured teeth are all conditions that it is never too late to correct, says top UK orthodontist Dr Neil Counihan.

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And given that it costs no more than a special holiday to make over most smiles, maybe it's time to think about getting yours 'done' if you've always been self-conscious about your teeth.

Technical advances over recent years have meant the end of bulky, uncomfortable braces. It can now take as little as six months to correct a dental issue, with near-invisible hardware and even inside braces (that fit inside your teeth rather than on the outside) so no one need know you're having treatment.

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Individualism over perfection

At his Metamorphosis clinic in London's Parsons Green, New York-trained Dr Counihan and his colleague Runa Mowla specialise in 'face-driven' orthodontics, championing individualism over perfection. As well as children, they treat increasing numbers of adult patients, many flying in from overseas for the Metamorphosis brand of facial re-modelling.

Dr Counihan explains his philosophy. 'Your teeth should match you, not be the too-perfect California piano keys that used to be the default. Your own teeth, but in the right position, should be what you aim for.'

And if you're having your teeth whitened, aim to match your new shade with the whites of your eyes - nothing too fake is the new perfect, he advises.

You'll feel younger and more confident

Fixing your smile in your 30s can help prevent 'face drop' in later life, Dr Counihan says. 'The typical time for adults to get their teeth fixed is late 20s or early 30s, when you've got a bit of money to spend on yourself and maybe you've met your significant other.

'This is the time when ageing starts to have an effect, too: your lower incisors start to crowd up and everything drifts forward. It's a good idea to correct things at this stage before it gets too bad.'

So is it a good idea to have an orthodontist on speed dial as you age and your smile starts to deteriorate?

'There is no age limit to orthodontics,' says Dr Counihan, who treats patients in their 70s and 80s. 'Getting your teeth fixed makes you look more youthful, whatever your age. You will also look and feel more healthy and it contributes to your longevity.

'Dental care is undervalued in the health and beauty world, but it's a fact that having straight, white teeth makes you feel younger, sexier and more confident.'

Looking after your teeth

In addition to visiting your dentist and dental hygienist regularly, three other vital steps will help keep your teeth in the best shape possible.

Do not smoke. Dr Counihan will not treat smokers as the habit is so harmful to teeth: nicotine settles on the teeth and attracts bacteria, leading to decay; smoking also inhibits blood flow on a local level, which can cause necrosis of your mouth and gums.

Chew xylitol gum for five minutes after eating: it neutralises bacteria in your mouth and thus helps prevent tooth decay. 'I would advise every mum to put a tablet of xylitol gum in their child's lunchbox if I could - that is how important I think this is,' says Dr Counihan.

Brush your teeth properly, flossing with interdental brushes (the little ones that look like a tiny Christmas tree) for all-round cleaning, and using an electric toothbrush as it is less likely to cause gum recession through over-enthusiastic brushing.

The materials in this web site are in no way intended to replace the professional medical care, advice, diagnosis or treatment of a doctor. The web site does not have answers to all problems. Answers to specific problems may not apply to everyone. If you notice medical symptoms or feel ill, you should consult your doctor - for further information see our Terms and conditions.

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